UNESCO officially recognised Italian cuisine as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, celebrating a tradition deeply rooted in family, community and regional diversity. The decision was announced on Wednesday at the 20th ICH session held at Delhi’s historic Red Fort.Italy began its bid in 2023, arguing that its food culture represents more than iconic dishes like pizza or pasta—it is a shared ritual passed down through generations.From Lombardy’s ossobuco to Puglia’s orecchiette, the cuisine reflects a mosaic of regional flavours and histories.

Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni hailed the recognition as a moment of national pride, saying it will help protect authentic Italian products from imitation. Industry groups predict the accolade could boost tourism by up to 8 percent within two years, adding nearly 18 million overnight visits. Italian cuisine now joins global culinary traditions such as French haute cuisine, Korea’s kimchi-making and Japan’s Washoku.